By: Kathryn Eftink
Living in Memphis, the sweet, smoky scent of barbecue never escapes your nose—it’s carried in the wind filling the air with a feeling of home. It’s as much a part of this city as the blues on Beale Street or the mighty Mississippi. And for perfusionists working long hours in hospitals, knowing there’s a delicious barbecue sandwich waiting just around the corner makes lunchtime something to look forward to.
Memphis takes its barbecue seriously, and it shows in the countless spots where you can find slow-smoked, tender meats cooked to perfection. Each restaurant brings its own unique flair to the classic Memphis-style barbecue, creating a flavor palette that ranges from spicy and tangy to smoky and sweet. These barbecue joints are the heart and soul of our city’s culinary landscape.
No matter which hospital you’re working at with Connect Perfusion, there’s sure to be a great barbecue spot nearby. Here are some of the best places to get your barbecue fix:
Payne’s Bar-B-Que
Famous for its mouthwatering pulled pork sandwiches topped with tangy mustard slaw, Payne’s has been serving barbecue to Memphis locals since the 1970s. The unassuming location just adds to its authentic feel.
Central BBQ
Famous for its slow-smoked meats and flavorful dry rubs, Central BBQ has been a local favorite for years. Their pulled pork, ribs, and wings are must-tries, often served with their signature sauces.
The Bar-B-Q Shop
Known for its “Dancing Pigs” sauce and rub, The Bar-B-Q Shop offers a delicious variety of Memphis-style barbecue. Their barbecue spaghetti is a unique dish that you won’t find everywhere.
Corky’s Ribs & BBQ
Corky’s is a classic Memphis barbecue joint, serving up ribs that are either wet (with sauce) or dry (with a spice rub). Their hickory-smoked meats and Southern-style sides keep customers coming back for more.
Cozy Corner Restaurant
A family-owned spot that’s been around since the 1970s, Cozy Corner offers some of the best barbecued Cornish hens and ribs in town. Their BBQ bologna sandwich is a hidden gem worth trying.
Rendezvous
A legend in the Memphis barbecue world, Rendezvous is known for its charcoal-broiled dry ribs and a restaurant atmosphere that captures the essence of Memphis. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal and take in some local culture.
Elwood’s Shack
While known for its fusion of Southern and barbecue flavors, Elwood’s Shack serves a fantastic smoked brisket that’s not to be missed. It’s a casual spot with an eclectic menu that has a little something for everyone.
One & Only BBQ
With a name that says it all, One & Only BBQ offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu packed with flavorful ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. Their family-friendly environment makes it a great choice for gatherings.
Memphis’s barbecue scene isn’t just about satisfying your taste buds—it’s about experiencing our culture. These restaurants represent decades of passion, history, and the Memphis way of life. For perfusionists who choose to make Memphis their home, the city’s barbecue joints offer the perfect way to unwind and connect with the local community after a day of saving lives.
If you’re a perfusionist looking to make Memphis your home, we want to connect with you! Follow Connect Perfusion on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn and stay updated on job opportunities, community highlights, and the best spots in town to grab some legendary barbecue.
Check out the recent ApartmentGuide article we were featured in:
Memphis, TN, is known for its rich musical heritage and vibrant cultural scene, but beyond Beale Street and Graceland, the city holds a treasure trove of lesser-known places. Whether you’re new to the area and scoping out the apartments in Memphis, or a longtime local looking to find a house, exploring these hidden gems in Memphis, TN, will offer a fresh perspective on the Bluff City.
Read the full article here: 10 Hidden Gems in Memphis, TN | ApartmentGuide.com